Michael Ball

Michael Ball lives and works in Asheville, NC, home to rich pottery making traditions. He still hand digs the clay and wood fires, just as potters did in the 19th century. Mike learned his trade from Kim Ellington and Charlie Lisk who learned directly from local master Burlon Craig, the last potter experienced in the earliest traditions of the region. He creates fanciful eyeball vessels, whimsical face jugs with unique facial features and mischievous creatures real and imagined. Following local tradition, he incorporates beautiful glass drips and uses broken plates for teeth.